This is a departure from the Alta Maria Vineyards Santa Maria Valley bottling. All whole cluster fermentation and use of 50% new oak yield a big, warm, rich, and spicy wine. The cherry, blackberry, and black raspberry notes have a confit quality and are spiced with brown baking spices. The wine is round and full, balanced with enough acid to provide a counterpoint to the fruit and oak. The finish is long and warm.
Alta Maria Vineyards, Santa Maria Valley (California) Pinot Noir 2010
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